Umm Al Quwain, being one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, shares a rich food culture that is intertwined with the history and traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. The diet of the region traditionally comprises fish, rice, and dates due to its location along the Persian Gulf. Fishing and pearling were mainstays of the economy until the discovery of oil transformed the region. The blend of spices and ingredients in Umm Al Quwain's cuisine has been influenced by the trade routes that ran through the Arabian Peninsula, bringing flavors from India, Persia, and beyond. Aromatic spices, herbs, and the generous use of saffron and cardamom characterize the local dishes.